Table Fellowship

by Ana Julia Luiz·January 28, 2022·2 min read

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Table fellowship is like the relationship we have with our families, where we eat together. A relationship in which we know each other so well to the point of knowing what the other likes or not, the quirks and certain things that it is only possible to know in an intimate environment.

But how does this apply in our life with God?

Jesus on the road to Emmaus

This story is related in Luke 24:13-25. This episode took place after the death of Jesus, where two disciples were walking and the Master, already resurrected, began to walk with them. It turns out that none of them recognized Him and Jesus started a dialogue with them:

“He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” They stood still, their faces downcast.”
Luke 24:17

Both, annoyed, begin to share with the Master the last great event: Jesus had died, crucified. They also begin to say how much this upset them, for He was expected to be the one who would redeem Israel.

Jesus then explained to them about the Scriptures and how the Messiah would have to suffer to enter His Glory.

It turns out that all the way passed and none of the disciples recognized Jesus.

Jesus and the Table Fellowship

When they got close to the village where they were going, the disciples invited Jesus to stay with them, after all, it was late, and the Lord accepted the proposal.

When they were sitting at the table, Jesus took the bread, gave thanks to God and divided it among them. Immediately the eyes of the disciples were opened and they recognized Him, but soon Jesus disappeared.

Okay, but then you ask me, “What does this whole thing have to do with the table fellowship?” and I will explain to you.

“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples…”
Matthew 26:26

During the Last Supper, Jesus did exactly the same thing: he gave thanks, broke and gave bread to the disciples. And this attitude is repeated in other suppers mentioned in the Gospels, that is, it was Jesus’ custom and exactly when He does it, the disciples recognized him.

Our lives

The question that is now asked is: what kind of relationship are we having with God? Is it a table fellowship? If we were in the disciples’ shoes, would we be able to recognize him in the breaking of bread? Or do we not have such an intimate relationship with Him? Perhaps we would not recognize him either on the way or in the breaking of bread. Perhaps we would need Him to say, “It is me, Jesus.”

I believe it is a time to reflect on what relationship we have and want to have with Him.

God bless you,

Ana.